DHAKA: Former Australia fast bowler Brett Lee has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket after a 20-year career.

The 38-year-old stopped playing internationally in July 2012, but had been a Twenty20 regular, both in the Indian Premier League and in domestic competition in Australia.

Lee, who made the announcement at the Sydney Cricket Ground, remains the equal leading wicket-taker for Australia in one-day internationals with Glenn McGrath, with 380 in 221 appearances. Lee also took 310 wickets in 76 tests for Australia.

Lee's Twenty20 team, the Sydney Sixers, has one regular-season match remaining this season, a local derby against Sydney Thunder.

As many as 30,000 fans are expected to attend in what could be the last chance to see Lee play.

Sixers General Manager Dominic Remond said: 'Brett has been an integral part of the fabric of the Sixers since our inception.

'He is a true legend of the game, still contributing at the highest level and exemplifies commitment, as his work in the off-seasons to be in top condition for the BBL indicates.'

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland also praised Lee who is one of only four Australian bowlers to claim 300 Test wickets, alongside Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath and Dennis Lillee.

He said: 'On behalf of Australian cricket, I congratulate Brett on a wonderful career.

'He has been an exceptional cricketer who gained fans around the world not only for his electrifying pace and performances with the ball, but the way that he played the game.

BDST: 1015 HRS, JAN 15, 2015